30/08/2016
Navigating between London's major airports can seem daunting, especially when you're on a tight schedule or trying to keep costs down. Gatwick (LGW) and Heathrow (LHR) are two of the busiest international gateways to the UK, and understanding the best way to travel between them is crucial for many travellers. Whether you're catching a connecting flight, meeting arriving guests, or simply repositioning for your next adventure, this guide will break down your options, highlighting the pros and cons of each.
Understanding the Journey
The distance between Gatwick and Heathrow is approximately 45-50 miles (72-80 km) depending on the route taken. While driving is often cited as the quickest method, it's not always the most practical or economical for everyone. Factors such as traffic, time of day, and the number of passengers can significantly influence your choice.
Driving: The Direct Route
As noted, driving yourself or taking a taxi/private hire vehicle is often the most direct method. The estimated journey time is around 1 hour and 2 minutes, though this is highly dependent on traffic conditions. During peak hours, this can easily extend to 1.5 to 2 hours. The cost for fuel and potential road tolls (though unlikely on the most common routes) might range from £8 to £13 for fuel. However, this figure doesn't account for parking if you were to park at Heathrow, or the significantly higher cost of a taxi or private hire service, which could range from £70 to £120 or more.
Pros of Driving:
- Convenience: Door-to-door service, ideal for those with heavy luggage.
- Flexibility: Travel on your own schedule.
- Potentially Fastest: If traffic is light, it can be the quickest option.
Cons of Driving:
- Cost: Taxis and private hire can be very expensive.
- Traffic: Highly susceptible to delays, especially during peak times.
- Parking: If you're driving your own car, parking at Heathrow can be costly.
Public Transport: The Economical Choice
For those prioritising cost-effectiveness, public transport offers several viable options.
The National Express Coach
National Express operates a direct coach service between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport. This is often considered one of the most affordable and straightforward public transport options. The journey typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, again, subject to traffic. Tickets can be booked in advance online, often securing better prices. Prices can vary, but you might find tickets for as little as £15-£25 if booked ahead.
National Express Service Details:
| Service | Frequency | Approximate Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Express Coach | Regularly scheduled (check timetable) | 1 - 1.5 hours | £15 - £25+ (booked in advance) |
Train Options: A Two-Stage Approach
While there isn't a direct train service, you can combine train journeys to reach Heathrow. The most common route involves taking a train from Gatwick Airport to a major London station, and then connecting to the Heathrow Express or the Elizabeth Line.
Option 1: Gatwick to London Victoria, then Heathrow Express
First, take a Southern or Gatwick Express train from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Station. This journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From Victoria, you would then need to travel to Paddington Station (via the London Underground's Circle or District lines, a journey of about 15-20 minutes) to catch the Heathrow Express. The Heathrow Express is the fastest train to Heathrow, taking just 15 minutes to reach Terminals 2 & 3.
Total estimated time for this route: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (excluding transfer times between stations and waiting times).
Estimated Cost: This is generally the most expensive train option due to the premium pricing of the Heathrow Express. Expect costs upwards of £40-£50.
Option 2: Gatwick to London Paddington, then Heathrow Express
Alternatively, you can take a train from Gatwick directly to London Paddington. This is less frequent than services to Victoria but is possible. The journey time to Paddington can be around 1 hour. From Paddington, you then take the Heathrow Express.
Total estimated time: Similar to the Victoria route, around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Estimated Cost: Similar to Option 1, likely £40-£50+.
Option 3: Gatwick to Central London, then Elizabeth Line
A more cost-effective train option involves taking a train from Gatwick to a central London station that serves the Elizabeth Line (e.g., Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, Liverpool Street). You could take a Southern train to London Bridge or Victoria, then transfer to the Underground to reach an Elizabeth Line station. The Elizabeth Line provides a direct service to Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3, 4, and 5. This is a relatively new and comfortable option.
Total estimated time: This route can take longer due to the multiple transfers, potentially 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes. The Elizabeth Line journey itself to Heathrow from central London is about 30-50 minutes depending on the terminal.
Estimated Cost: This is generally cheaper than the Heathrow Express, with costs potentially in the £25-£35 range, depending on your starting point in London.
The Tube (London Underground): The Budget-Conscious but Time-Consuming Way
While not directly connected by the Underground, you can theoretically use the Tube for parts of the journey. This would involve taking a train from Gatwick to a London Underground station (like Victoria or London Bridge) and then navigating the Tube network to a station that connects to Heathrow (e.g., Piccadilly Line from Green Park or King's Cross St Pancras). However, this is a very long and convoluted journey, often involving multiple changes and significant travel time. It's generally not recommended for this specific airport transfer due to the sheer time it consumes, often exceeding 2.5 hours.
Comparison Table: Gatwick to Heathrow Options
| Method | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (Taxi/Private Hire) | 1 - 2 hours (traffic dependent) | £70 - £120+ | Convenient, door-to-door | Expensive, traffic delays |
| National Express Coach | 1 - 1.5 hours | £15 - £25+ (advance booking) | Affordable, direct | Can be affected by traffic |
| Train (Gatwick-Victoria-Paddington-Heathrow Express) | 1.25 - 1.5 hours | £40 - £50+ | Fastest train to Heathrow | Expensive, multiple changes |
| Train (Gatwick-Central London-Elizabeth Line) | 1.75 - 2.25 hours | £25 - £35 | More affordable train option, comfortable | Multiple transfers required |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the absolute fastest way to get from Gatwick to Heathrow?
The fastest way is generally to drive if traffic conditions are favourable, aiming for the 1 hour 2 minute mark. If using public transport, the combination of a Gatwick Express/Southern train to Paddington followed by the Heathrow Express is the quickest train option.
What is the cheapest way to get from Gatwick to Heathrow?
The cheapest method is typically the National Express coach service, especially if booked in advance. Driving yourself on a full tank of fuel might be cheaper than a taxi, but the initial cost of driving (car wear and tear) isn't factored in. The train to central London and then the Elizabeth Line is the next cheapest public transport option.
Do I need to book in advance?
For National Express coaches and train tickets, booking in advance is highly recommended. You'll often secure cheaper fares and guarantee your seat, especially during busy periods. For the Heathrow Express, advance booking can also offer savings.
What if I have a lot of luggage?
If you have a significant amount of luggage, driving (taxi/private hire) offers the most convenience. For public transport, the coach service can be more accommodating than the Underground due to luggage space. The Heathrow Express and Elizabeth Line also have designated luggage areas.
Which option is best for a connecting flight?
For connecting flights, prioritise speed and reliability. The Heathrow Express (after reaching Paddington) or a pre-booked car service are generally the safest bets to minimise the risk of missing your onward flight. Always allow ample time for potential delays.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mode of transport between Gatwick and Heathrow depends on your priorities: budget, time, and convenience. The National Express coach offers a strong balance of affordability and reasonable journey time. For those who need the utmost speed and don't mind the expense, driving (if traffic permits) or the Heathrow Express route via Paddington are top choices. Planning ahead and booking tickets in advance will almost always lead to a smoother and more cost-effective journey.
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